The Irish led 20-4 at half-time and three tries in eight minutes at the start of the second half put the game, which was shown live on the state television sports channel, beyond doubt.

Andy Kelly's men - for whom assistant coach Barrie McDermott was in the starting line-up - had too much experience and guile for the Russians, who had Wests Tigers coach Tim Sheens acting as consultant.

New captain Phil Cantillon opened the scoring in the 16th minute with a typical dart to the posts from five metres out and he added a second try after the break.

Salford centre Stuart Littler also scored two tries in the opening half while Russia's tries came from winger Valantin Baskakakov and centres Robert Iliassov and Roman Ovchinnikos.